Have you hugged a utilities employee today?: National Public Works Week runs May 20-26

McCarthy and the Pierce County Council signed a proclamation declaring the week of May 20-26 as National Public Works Week in Pierce County. Several Pierce County Public Works and Utilities employees accepted the proclamation on the department's behalf at the May 1 County Council meeting.

Pierce County residents are invited to participate in several activities as part of National Public Works Week, which runs from May 20-26.

“Pierce County Public Works and Utilities employees strive to support a livable Pierce County,” said Pat McCarthy, Pierce County Executive. “Public works and utilities infrastructure, facilities and services protect the environment, improve public health and safety, contribute to economic vitality, and enhance the quality of life in our community. Join me in thanking these employees for their hard work.”

National Public Works Week activities

The public is invited to participate in the following activities:

â¢ Volunteer opportunity: Volunteer alongside Pierce County Public Works and Utilities employees at Trout Unlimited’s Puyallup River Clean-Up from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 12. Meet at Johnny’s Bar and Grill at 1100 N. Meridian in Puyallup on the corner of River Road and Meridian next to the Puyallup Fred Meyer. Volunteers will receive supplies, instructions and a free Puget Sound Starts Here T-shirt. Wear work clothes and sturdy shoes. The event is part of Puget Sound Starts Here Month.

Wastewater treatment plant tours:The public is invited to take a free tour on Tuesday, May 22 of the Chambers Creek Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, located at 10311 Chambers Creek Road W. in University Place. The plant treats residential and commercial wastewater and sewage. Tours will depart from the main office at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Call (253) 798-3013 to reserve your spot, as there is space for 25 people during each time slot. Wear closed toed shoes, long pants and a jacket. The plant has uneven terrain. The tour is not recommended for children under 8.

â¢ Ferry photo contest: Amateur photographers are invited to submit photos related to the Pierce County Ferry System for the 2012 ferry photo contest. The system provides service between the town of Steilacoom, Anderson Island and Ketron Island. To participate, “like” Public Works and Utilities’ Facebook page, and upload your favorite photo by 11 p.m. Thursday, May 24. Winners will be announced during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Steilacoom Terminal renovation project at 3 p.m. May 30 at the terminal. Contest details are available at www.piercecountywa.org/ferry.

Pierce County Public Works and Utilities has more than 600 employees who design and maintain county roads, operate two airports and the ferry system, address flood control, water quality and the preservation of natural drainage systems, maintain the sewer system and operate the wastewater treatment plant, and regulate the solid waste system, among other things.

Please visit www.piercecountywa.org/pwu for more information about Pierce County Public Works and Utilities.